Israeli settlers attack Palestinian olive harvesters and U.S. journalist in West Bank

Dozens of masked Israeli settlers attacked Palestinian olive harvesters and journalists near the villages of Abu Falah and Turmus Ayya in the occupied West Bank on Friday, injuring multiple people and setting fire to vehicles and olive trees.

Washington Post photojournalist Heidi Levine, a U.S. citizen, said settlers pushed her to the ground and repeatedly kicked her despite her clearly marked press vest. She was taken to a hospital in Ramallah and was reported in stable condition. The Post said her cameras and phone were stolen, while the Foreign Press Association said her passport, wallet and equipment were also taken.

Accounts of the number injured varied. A local official told the BBC that 12 Palestinians, including four dual Palestinian American citizens, were hurt near Abu Falah. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society reported 20 injuries across two dozen attacks on harvesters on Friday. Witnesses said settlers armed with sticks and slingshots threw rocks, burned olive groves and torched at least three Palestinian-owned vehicles.

Israeli military forces arrived during the violence and used riot-control measures. The military said it condemned attacks on civilians and would examine the incident. Israeli police opened an investigation and pledged to bring those responsible to justice.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said the circumstances remained unclear and alleged that Palestinians and activists had confronted Israeli youths. The Washington Post disputed any uncertainty over Levine’s assault, saying she was visibly identified as press and was beaten. The U.S. State Department condemned criminal violence in the West Bank and called for investigations and accountability.